From ADHD perfectionism to empathy and grace (Livingston’s story)
Dec 26, 2023
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Livingston Steele, a guest on this podcast, discusses his perfectionism and how it led him to get evaluated for ADHD. He also shares how ADHD helped him build empathy for his brothers (who also have ADHD), and for himself.
Understanding ADHD in relationships can foster empathy and grace towards individuals with ADHD, leading to better support and accommodation.
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis can bring relief, self-awareness, and the opportunity to develop coping strategies specific to ADHD.
Deep dives
Importance of Understanding ADHD in Relationships
One of the main ideas discussed in this podcast episode is the importance of understanding ADHD in relationships. The speaker shares their own experience of getting diagnosed with ADHD and how it brought them closer to their brothers, who also have ADHD. They express how understanding their brothers' struggles and learning about ADHD allowed them to have more empathy and grace towards them. This understanding also helped them to let go of perfectionism and work towards accommodating one another. The speaker highlights the significance of recognizing the different symptoms and challenges that ADHD can present in individuals, and how this understanding can foster better relationships and support.
The Impact of Diagnosis on Self-Awareness and Coping Strategies
Another key point discussed in the podcast is the impact of receiving an ADHD diagnosis on self-awareness and coping strategies. The speaker shares their relief upon getting diagnosed, as it helped them make sense of the challenges they had been facing throughout their life. The diagnosis led to a shift in perspective, allowing them to give themselves grace and develop coping strategies specific to their ADHD. They emphasize the ongoing nature of learning about triggers, challenges, and personal growth, and how the acknowledgement of their ADHD has enabled them to navigate life with a greater understanding of themselves and others with ADHD.
Empathy and Grace in Interactions with ADHD Individuals
The podcast episode also explores the importance of empathy and grace in interactions with individuals who have ADHD. The speaker shares their observations of certain signs and behaviors that indicate ADHD, such as hair twirling or emotional outbursts. They discuss the significance of responding to these signs with understanding and empathy rather than judgment. By listening and seeking to understand the individual's experience, one can better accommodate their needs and provide support. The speaker encourages others to learn about ADHD symptoms and the different ways it can affect individuals, both within a professional setting and everyday life, in order to foster meaningful connections and promote a more inclusive and supportive environment.
It’s the hair twirling that always gives it away. After silently coping for years, Livingston Steele can spot the signs of ADHD, and the anxiety it can cause. He’d been working here at Understood.org for about a year when he was officially diagnosed.
Livingston talks about his perfectionism and what led him to get evaluated for ADHD. He also shares how ADHD helped him build empathy for his brothers (who also have ADHD), and for himself.
Understood is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give
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